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Brooklyn Bridge Shut Down After Man Threatens to Jump

Yesterday afternoon, the Brooklyn Bridge was closed in both directions after a man was seen standing atop the bridge and heading for the tower on the bridge's Manhattan side around 3 p.m. The incident resulted in traffic, and several pedestrians gathered to watch the scenario unfold. According to NYPD Sgt. John Flynn, the man was contemplating suicide: “He was clearly in distress, stating he wanted to jump off the top of the bridge."

Det. Greg Welch says that police were able to eventually rescue the man by pleading with him. "[But] after being persistent and talking with him, and letting him know that we do care and convincing him that we do care, he was able to talk to us," Welch said. Reporter Niketa Patel said the crowd cheered as the man finally walked toward police and was taken into custody.